Experienced Collaboration Among Allied Healthcare Professionals in the Management of Patients with Complex Care Needs after Hospitalization – A mixed method study

Abstract

Background Patients with complex care needs often require coordinated care across hospital, rehabilitation, and primary care settings. Allied healthcare professionals support patients throughout this process, but interdisciplinary collaboration across settings can be challenging due to the involvement of multiple professionals and care transitions. Little is known about the experienced collaboration of professionals in providing care to patients with complex care needs.

Aim To explore the experienced collaboration of allied healthcare professionals from hospitals, rehabilitation, and primary care settings in providing care to patients with complex care needs.

Methods A mixed methods design was used. An online survey was distributed to assess healthcare professionals’ experiences of interprofessional collaboration. Linear regression analyses were performed to examine associations between perceived collaboration and characteristics of allied healthcare professionals. Focus groups were used to explore the rationale behind survey responses, focusing on participants’ experiences, barriers, and facilitators among interprofessional collaboration. Data were analyzed thematically using a deductive approach. Themes were mapped into six constructs for interprofessional collaboration.

Results The questionnaire covered six constructs, each rated on a 10-point scale, with the following average scores: interprofessional values and ethics (7.4), roles and responsibilities (7.2), shared goals (7.1), shared decision making (6.6), communication (6.4), and reflection (6.3). Professionals with a master’s degree scored lower on shared decision making and reflection. More years of experience were associated with higher ratings in interprofessional values and ethics and communication. Professionals in hospital and rehabilitation settings rated interprofessional values and ethics lower than those in primary care. Focus groups highlighted barriers such as fragmented communication, lack of clear goals, unclear role division, and limited reflection. Informal relationships and mutual familiarity were seen as key foundations for effective collaboration.

Conclusion and key findings This study shows that, despite its recognized value, effective collaboration among allied healthcare professionals is often difficult to achieve. Informal relationships play an important role, but sustainable collaboration requires formal structures, regular reflection, and clear digital communication tools. Future research should expand to diverse settings and disciplines to further enhance understanding and support effective interprofessional teamwork.